Colorado Ski Destinations You Shouldn’t Underestimate

Don't sleep on these Rocky Mountain spots!

It’s hard not to associate Colorado with great skiing. The Rocky Mountains have long been a favorite ski travel destination and people from around the world are drawn to many of the ski resorts season after season. You have your pick of over thirty unique ski areas in the state and chances are we have a ski discount at every one!

Every ski area in Colorado has something exciting to offer that is all their own, whether you’re a deep snow enthusiast or you want to schuss on grommers. No matter what your style is, you’re going to find a ski mountain that offers everything the winter heart inside of you is craving. From cruisers to dizzying, steep inclines these are our top powder resort options you need to experience.

Powderhorn

Less than an hour away from the Western valley city of Grand Junction is Powderhorn, a resort with breathtaking views no matter where you look. It sits atop the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flattop mountain, while also overlooking Colorado’s wine country. As one of the most affordable resorts in the state, Powderhorn knows how to deliver excellent service and amenities without breaking the bank.

Guests can expect to clock in a lot of time out on dry powder and on explore some of the best tree-skiing in the Rocky Mountains. With over 1,600 acres of terrain, the fun won’t run out while you’re there! This resort is not just for beginners either, as 30% of their trails are advanced and 50% is intermediate. So if you’re well past taking on the bunny slopes you’ll discover that there are trails with your thrill-seeking name on it. You can take advantage of the minimal lift lines, and if you enjoy the vibes of a slower paced resort then you’ll be in the right place when you visit.

Beaver Creek

Situated close to Vail sits Beaver Creek, a ski resort often overlooked by those who are looking to only ski for the day. But this resort holds incredible prospects with its unforgettable views and amazing corduroy. Guests who come to Beaver Creek can enjoy many of the same luxurious elements found at places like Vail and Aspen as well as world-class terrain that is hard to beat. Advanced skiers looking for a real challenge can head over to the Birds of Prey run, a rather fast steep that true thrill-seekers will appreciate. This particular run has a reputation of being a formidable stop on the Men’s Alpine Ski World cup, so come prepared if you’re ready to take on this daring feat.

What makes Beaver Creek an incredible powder destination is also its 1,800 acres of skiable terrain that offers an unmatched mountain vacation experience. Every level of skier can find an area to conquer whether they’re seeking more family-friendly terrain or looking to tackle an off-piste exploration instead. Its three peaks are just waiting for newcomers and repeat guests to visit. Discover their many trails, and maybe even stop by their numerous galleries and boutiques while you’re at it!

Telluride

The San Juan Mountains are a truly splendid sight to behold and it’s home to not only the town of Telluride but also the skiing area of the same name. This resort is one that elicits a feeling of exhilaration due to its breathtaking views and literal breathtaking hike-to terrains. In short, they’ve got some pretty wicked inclines that people aren’t afraid to try out. But if you want to clock in some seriously extreme skiing, then out into the wild country you go! It’s what makes Telluride such a thrill and why people can’t help but stay longer than intended.

Across 2,000 acres of terrain, guests will find a good mix of runs to accommodate beginners all the way to advanced skiers. Serious snow buffs can log a cushy amount of vertical while on the mountain and with a maximum elevation of 13,150 feet, it’s not hard to accomplish. The Galloping Goose trail, which is their longest run (4.6. miles) is also a noteworthy mention about the resort. Because who doesn’t want to find the best runs Colorado has to offer? You’re guaranteed to leave feeling refreshed and on top of the world, and that’s not only because of the elevation you’re at!

Keystone

Rising peaks, massive bowls, and wide glades to roam oh my! Keystone is one of those places where the vibe immediately makes you feel at ease. This resort is sometimes less crowded than places like Breckenridge, and shouldn’t be easily dismissed. It features 3,148 acres of skiable terrain, a vertical drop of 3, 128 feet and 5 above-tree-line bowls for an experience that will instantly win you over in no time. The three peaks at Keystone-Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and The Outback-all offer incredible runs, views and challenges that skiers and riders both can enjoy.

Their well-groomed trails from the summit to the main base are almost all equally long and steep though 12% of the trails feature easier slopes for a relaxed ride. Two learning areas on Dercum Mountain allow let people take advantage of either brushing up on their skills or build up confidence if they are less experienced. When you’re on the mountain, you’ll find that this ultimate mountain playground is one for the books and one where the whole family can feel welcomed.

Wolf Creek

When you hear that a ski resort has the most snow in the state, you’re bound to let your curiosity take you there to see it for yourself. At Wolf Creek, that’s exactly what you get, thanks to its typical snowfall of 430 inches. That’s right, 430 inches. So if you’re looking for some deep powder stashes you’re probably going to be happy you made the choice to swing by! There are 1,600 acres to take advantage of, and experienced skiers can get excited about the tree runs, waterfall trails, and backcountry hikes.

This resort is also the easiest of the San Juan resorts to get to from Denver, sitting just thirty minutes from Pagosa Springs (near Interstate 25). Stopping in Pagosa can be a great option for many before or after they make their way to the resort since there isn’t a ski town close by. If you’ve made Wolf Creek your go-to this ski season, you can stay in town. Or you can hop over to South Fork where you can experience quiet, mountain town vibes all day. Both towns are almost equidistance to the resort and have numerous accommodations to choose from, so you can rest your weary head after a day of shredding!

There is such a wide variety of ski resorts in Colorado and we love them all. It’s hard to narrow them down because each one has a little something special, but we definitely feel these ski resorts spoke the most to us overall. If you have a favorite powder spot the Centennial state that’s different from our list, where is it located? And what makes it your go-to destination?